Veteran striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is set to become a free agent this summer, with Saudi Pro League side Al Qadsiah reportedly preparing to terminate his contract by mutual consent. The 36-year-old forward, who joined the club amid much fanfare, will now be released as the club turns its attention to a younger attacking option ahead of the new season.
The news was broken by renowned football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano on Tuesday, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), where he revealed that the Gabonese international and Al Qadsiah are both in agreement to part ways.
“Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, set to be available as free agent this summer,” Romano wrote. “Understand Al Qadsiah and Auba are prepared to part ways on mutual consent as the Saudi Pro League side want to bring in a younger striker. Aubameyang, opportunity available with many clubs on alert.”
Aubameyang’s imminent exit marks the end of a short and relatively quiet chapter in his storied football career. The former Arsenal captain joined Al Qadsiah with high expectations, but it appears the club’s long-term sporting project no longer aligns with his presence in the squad. With Al Qadsiah reportedly seeking to build a younger, more dynamic attack, the experienced striker has become surplus to requirements.
Though Aubameyang’s time in Saudi Arabia may not have produced the fireworks some expected, his name still commands significant interest across Europe and beyond. According to several sources, a number of clubs are already monitoring his situation closely, hoping to sign him on a free transfer once his contract termination becomes official.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang remains one of the most recognisable strikers of the past decade. Known for his electric pace, clinical finishing, and charismatic flair, he has enjoyed a successful career spanning some of Europe’s top leagues.
He rose to prominence at Borussia Dortmund, where he scored 141 goals in 213 appearances and won the DFB-Pokal. His performances earned him a high-profile move to Arsenal in January 2018, where he quickly became a fan favourite. Aubameyang netted 92 goals for the Gunners in 163 games, captained the side, and helped them lift the FA Cup in 2020.
A brief and tumultuous stint at Barcelona followed his departure from Arsenal, before he moved to Chelsea in 2022. However, his time at Stamford Bridge was marred by inconsistency and limited game time under multiple managers. He eventually joined Al Qadsiah, hoping for a fresh start in the Middle East.
Now, with his Saudi adventure coming to an end, speculation is already swirling over where Aubameyang could land next. Several European clubs — particularly in France, Italy, and Turkey — are believed to be interested in securing his signature. Ligue 1 clubs, including his former side AS Saint-Étienne and other mid-table teams, could offer him a chance to return to familiar territory. Turkish giants Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe have also previously been linked to the striker.
What remains clear is that Aubameyang, despite his age, still possesses the hunger and physical tools to contribute at a high level. Sources close to the player say he remains determined to prove his worth and is open to a return to Europe if the right opportunity arises.
With the 2025/26 season around the corner, many clubs are on the lookout for experienced goal scorers who can make an immediate impact. Aubameyang’s availability on a free transfer makes him a particularly attractive option — especially for sides looking to boost their attacking depth without paying exorbitant transfer fees.
At 36, Aubameyang may no longer be at the peak of his powers, but his vast experience in top-tier competitions, including the Premier League, La Liga, Bundesliga, and UEFA Europa League, could prove invaluable to any team aiming to balance youth with veteran leadership.
For Al Qadsiah, the decision to move on from Aubameyang signals a strategic shift. The club, which recently gained promotion to the Saudi Pro League, is said to be focused on building a long-term project centred on younger talents, particularly local and emerging African and South American players.
Saudi clubs have been making headlines over the past two seasons with their recruitment of world-class names, but the trend is now beginning to pivot toward sustainability and competitive balance. Al Qadsiah’s decision to part ways with an aging star is part of a broader recalibration of the league’s vision.
In the meantime, Aubameyang’s representatives are expected to field multiple offers in the coming weeks. Whether he chooses a return to one of Europe’s elite leagues, a move to MLS, or a new challenge in a different region remains to be seen.
What is certain, however, is that Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is not finished yet.
He remains an iconic figure for many fans — especially in Africa — and his next chapter will be followed with keen interest. As he prepares to leave Saudi Arabia behind, the veteran striker will be hoping to remind the football world that there’s still plenty of fuel left in the tank.
Africa Live News will continue to monitor all developments surrounding Aubameyang’s next move, providing exclusive updates and expert insights as the 2025 summer transfer window heats up.
